Emotional Support Dogs in Israel
In 2012, the Center formalized its Emotional Support Dogs Program for children with special needs. Since the beginning of the war in 2023, we have also been providing these special dogs to survivors, evacuees, and individuals suffering from war-related trauma. To date, we have placed more than 515 of these incredible dogs with families across Israel.
Impact of an Emotional Support Dog
An Emotional Support Dog can provide a steady source of comfort and predictability, helping to reduce anxiety and regulate overwhelming sensory or emotional experiences. The dog’s presence can also support social development and improve one’s sense of safety, independence, and confidence.
“I just knew in my bones that one of these dogs could help my son. Now that he has Darcy, we see how these dogs truly change lives – his and ours!”
Father of Emotional Support Family
“Socially, she’s amazing – she brings friends closer to him because she’s always at the center of every room, wherever she goes.”
Mother of Emotional Support Family
Who We Serve: Our Clients
All families receiving one of these dogs are Israeli citizens and have at least one child with an evaluated special need or have been suffering because of war. Our team carefully screens each family to ensure a dog will fit well in their lives. The family is instructed on how to care for and work with their new, loving family member to bring comfort, connection, and confidence to everyone in the household.
Emotional Support Dogs bring many benefits to those with special needs. They provide support, unconditional love, and companionship. They encourage social interaction, help break down walls of isolation, and promote mental and physical health.
How We Train Our Emotional Support Dogs
Our Emotional Support Dogs receive the same basic obedience training in Hebrew as our other dogs. They are highly obedient and well-bred dogs that provide invaluable emotional and psychological benefits.
Some information about our Emotional Support Dogs
Caring for an Emotional Support Dog creates a daily routine and improves mental health
Each dog is provided with the foundation to be a perfect companion to a child and family
Emotional Support Dogs lower blood pressure and heart rate, reducing stress levels
Our dogs act as a “social magnet” to facilitate interactions with peers
Emotional Support Dogs
Some of the dogs we breed will not be selected for advanced Guide Dog training. These amazing animals will “Change Careers” and become loving companions to other people in need. The demand for Emotional Support Dogs is growing faster than we imagined. This program provides a meaningful new path for these valuable dogs to enrich people’s lives.